Does Nespresso Make Tea Pods? Your Complete Guide
Nespresso does not offer tea pods; however, some compatible brands provide tea options for Nespresso machines.
Nespresso doesn’t produce tea pods, but third-party brands offer compatible options. These tea capsules let you brew everything from Earl Grey to matcha lattes in your Nespresso machine. Here’s what you need to know about compatibility, flavors, and where to find the best tea pods.
Official Nespresso Tea Pods: Do They Exist?
Nespresso focuses exclusively on coffee capsules. The company has never released tea pods under its brand. However, the OriginalLine machines work with many third-party tea capsules due to their standard pod design.
Why Nespresso Doesn’t Make Tea
The high-pressure extraction (19 bars) in Nespresso machines is optimized for coffee. Tea typically requires gentler brewing. While you can make tea in them, the results differ from traditional steeping methods.
Best Third-Party Tea Pods for Nespresso
Several brands have created tea capsules specifically designed for Nespresso OriginalLine machines:
| Brand | Popular Varieties | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mad Tea | Matcha, Thai Milk Tea, Jasmine Milk Tea | Latte-style teas with milk powder included |
| Tealyte | Chai, Mint, Fruit, Black, Green | Strong, aromatic flavors |
| Grana | Earl Grey, English Breakfast | 100% compostable pods |
| OzPod | Chai | Fair trade, biodegradable |
VertuoLine Compatibility Warning
Most tea pods only work with OriginalLine machines. The VertuoLine’s centrifugal brewing system and larger pod size make it incompatible with standard tea capsules. Always check compatibility before purchasing.
How Tea Pods Work in Nespresso Machines
Tea capsules contain finely ground tea leaves instead of coffee. When brewed in a Nespresso machine:
- Hot water extracts flavor under pressure
- Brew time is shorter than traditional steeping
- Results in a more concentrated tea “shot”
For best results, use the espresso button (1.35oz) rather than lungo. Add hot water or milk to adjust strength.
Flavor Comparison to Loose Leaf
Pressure-extracted tea has bolder, more intense flavors than normally steeped tea. Some varieties like chai and matcha lattes work particularly well with this method.
Where to Buy Nespresso-Compatible Tea Pods
You can find quality options at:
- Amazon (variety packs from multiple brands)
- Mad Tea (specialty tea lattes)
- Local specialty tea shops (often carry compatible pods)
For coffee lovers exploring tea options, check out our guide to the best Nespresso machines that can handle both beverage types.
Making Tea Drinks With Your Nespresso
Simple Tea Recipes
Try these combinations with your tea pods:
- Iced Tea: Brew over ice cubes
- Tea Latte: Add frothed milk (use the steam wand if your machine has one)
- London Fog: Earl Grey pod + vanilla syrup + steamed milk
For perfect milk frothing, consider the best blenders if your machine doesn’t have a milk frother.
Cleaning Tips After Using Tea Pods
Tea leaves can leave residue in your machine:
- Run a water-only cycle after using tea pods
- Clean the brew head weekly
- Descale regularly as you would with coffee
Alternating between coffee and tea pods may cause flavor crossover. Some users dedicate certain days to tea or coffee to prevent this.
Are Tea Pods Worth It?
Pros:
- Convenience of single-serve brewing
- Wide flavor variety
- Faster than traditional tea preparation
Cons:
- Different flavor profile than steeped tea
- Limited to OriginalLine machines
- Higher cost per cup than loose leaf
For tea enthusiasts who already own a Nespresso machine, compatible pods offer an easy way to expand your beverage options without additional equipment.
